Samsung Dishwasher Turns On By Itself: Causes and Fixes

Quick Answer

Samsung dishwashers are uniquely susceptible to phantom start events because of two Samsung-specific features absent on GE or Maytag: the SmartThings app integration (which can trigger cycles remotely) and the Auto Release Door open mechanism (on DW80R series), which can intermittently activate its door motor and create sounds that seem like startup activity. If your Samsung started on its own, check the SmartThings app first - a scheduled cycle or family member triggering the cycle remotely is the most common explanation for Samsung-specific phantom starts. For Samsung models without app connectivity, a sticky touchpad key or a control board relay stuck closed is the mechanical cause.

SamsungDishwasherSeverity: medium82% DIY Success

Time to Fix

10–60 min

Difficulty

beginner

Parts Cost

$45 – $185

Tools Needed

Smartphone with SmartThings app, Torx T20 screwdriver

What Does the TURNS-ON-ITSELF Code Mean?

Samsung dishwashers turning on by themselves are most commonly caused by a SmartThings scheduled cycle, an inadvertent Delay Start activation, or a sticky touchpad key. App-triggered starts are Samsung-specific and the first thing to check.

Most Likely Causes

Based on aggregated repair data, here is the probability breakdown for this error code:

SmartThings app scheduled cycle or remote activation40%

Delay Start cycle inadvertently set and activating24%

Touchpad membrane key stuck in pressed position14%

Auto Release Door mechanism activation on DW80R models12%

Control board relay stuck closed (sending continuous run signal)10%

Symptoms You May Notice

Dishwasher powers on with no one touching the control panel
Cycle starts at a specific time each day (Delay Start schedule)
Display shows active cycle with no user input
Samsung SmartThings app shows cycle in progress
Door motor (Auto Release) activates unexpectedly

Can you reset a Samsung dishwasher to clear the TURNS-ON-ITSELF code?

Hold Power for 5 seconds to force a full shutdown. Turn off the circuit breaker for 2 minutes to discharge the control board. Restore power. Check the SmartThings app and delete any scheduled automations before the next use. If the phantom start was a one-time event after a power outage or app update, the power cycle reset typically resolves it.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

Smartphone with SmartThings appTorx T20 screwdriverFlashlight

Diagnostic Checklist

Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.

Check the SmartThings app if your Samsung dishwasher is a Wi-Fi

Check the SmartThings app if your Samsung dishwasher is a Wi-Fi connected model. Open the app and look at the dishwasher device page. Check 'Automations' and 'Schedules' for any programmed start times. Also check recent activity log in the app to see if a remote command was sent.

Check for an active Delay Start

Inspect the touchpad membrane for a stuck key

Test the control board relay

Replacement Parts

If your diagnostic testing proves the component has failed, you will need a replacement. We recommend OEM parts over aftermarket for water-handling components.

Part Name	OEM Number	Estimated Price
Control Panel and Touchpad AssemblyDD97-00707A · $45–$90	DD97-00707A	$45 – $90
Control BoardDD92-00040A · $90–$185	DD92-00040A	$90 – $185

Verify part fitment for your Samsung model

Repair vs. Replace Calculator

Appliance Age (Years)7 Yrs

Labor Approach

Our Verdict

REPAIR

Estimated Cost: $115 (Parts) vs $675 (New Machine)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Samsung SmartThings app cause my dishwasher to start by itself?

Yes. Samsung SmartThings app automations can trigger dishwasher cycles based on time schedules, home/away routines, or other connected device triggers. If another household member set up a schedule or if a SmartThings update activated a default routine, the dishwasher may start automatically. Open the SmartThings app, navigate to the dishwasher device, and check both the Schedules section and the Automations section. Delete any schedules or automations you did not intentionally create.

How do I disable Delay Start on my Samsung dishwasher?

If a Delay Start cycle is active, the display will show a countdown time (e.g., '3h' meaning 3 hours until start). Press the Cancel button once to clear the delayed cycle. On some Samsung DW80R models, you may need to hold Cancel for 3 seconds. The Delay Start button is often located near the Start button - it is easy to accidentally activate while loading dishes. After canceling, confirm the countdown is no longer showing on the display.

What is the Samsung Auto Release Door and can it cause phantom activation sounds?

The Auto Release Door feature on Samsung DW80R series models uses a small motor to automatically crack open the dishwasher door at the end of the drying cycle to allow steam to escape. This motor activation can sound like the machine is starting up, especially if you are in another room. If you hear a motor sound followed by the door cracking open slightly with no display activity, this is the Auto Release Door functioning normally - not a phantom start. The feature can be disabled in the settings menu if you prefer the door to stay closed.

Related Samsung Dishwasher Error Codes

Code: BEEPINGSamsung Dishwasher Beeping: What Each Alert Means Code: DIAG-MODESamsung Dishwasher Diagnostic Mode: Full Guide Code: HUBSamsung Dishwasher Error Codes: Complete Guide

Same Fix Works on These Brands

Samsung shares the same hardware platform with these brands. The diagnosis and repair steps are identical.

Samsung washerSamsung Washer 3C2 Error Code: Motor Stall Samsung washerSamsung Washer 3E Error Code: Motor Fault Samsung washerSamsung Washer 4C Error Code: No Water Supply Samsung washerSamsung Washer 4E Error Code: Water Supply Fault (Top Load)Samsung washerSamsung Washer 5C Error Code: Drain Error (Older Display)Samsung washerSamsung Washer 8C Error Code: Vibration Sensor Fault

Models Known to Experience TURNS-ON-ITSELF Errors

This repair applies to most Samsung dishwashers with this error code. Common model numbers include:

DW80R9950US, DW80R7060US, DW80R5060US, DW80R2031US, DW80K7050US, DW80K5050US, DW80R2031WS, DW80T5040US

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 14, 2026